Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
